Tecnam P2006T vs Diamond DA42
The Tecnam P2006T and Diamond DA42 Twin Star are the two modern light twins — both economical twin-engine four-seaters, the P2006T petrol/Rotax and very light, the DA42 diesel and composite.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Tecnam P2006T | Diamond DA42 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $288,195 – $695,000 | $488,877 – $1,162,757 |
| Category | Multi Engine Piston | Multi Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 4 |
| Cruise Speed | — | 170 kts (315 km/h) |
| Range | — | 1,050 nm (1,945 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 18,000 ft (5,486 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 3,935 lbs (1,785 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 940 lbs (426 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 50.0 gal (189 L) |
| Fuel Burn | — | 12.0 GPH (45 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 1,800 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $28,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $20,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $150 |
| Engines | — | 2 x Diesel |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateTecnam P2006T
Diamond DA42
Fuel$66/hr
Variable$150/hr
Annual Fixed$20,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$50,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Tecnam P2006T or Diamond DA42?
Bottom line: Choose the P2006T for the lowest-cost twin to buy and operate (Rotax economy, retractable, very light) — the cheapest way into a modern twin; choose the DA42 for diesel range/efficiency, composite build and a stronger multi-engine-training pedigree. P2006T = lowest-cost twin; DA42 = diesel/range/pedigree.
Pick the P2006T if…
- Budget matters — from $288,195 vs $488,877, you save ~$200,682.
- Newer design — production from 2010 vs 2004.
Pick the DA42 if…
- More inventory — 45 listings vs 8.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Tecnam P2006T or Diamond DA42?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The DA42 cruises at 170 kts with 1,050 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Diamond DA42: from $607,672.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Tecnam P2006T and Diamond DA42?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
DA42: about $150/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
DA42: 4 seats / 940 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
DA42: 1,800-hour TBO, overhaul ~$28,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data